Discover our detailed comparison of Barchart and Interactive Brokers to help determine which is best for you. Whether you’re a seasoned trader or just starting out, choosing the right platform can significantly impact your trading experience.
To make your research easier, we manually found key data for Barchart and Interactive Brokers across the internet and compiled it all in this article.
Key Characteristics of Barchart and Interactive Brokers
| Provider | Platform Type | Tradeable Assets | Charting Features | Data | Premium Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barchart Visit Site | Charting Software | Not a broker, but you can chart stocks, ETFs, futures, & forex | Downloadable desktop platform and web app with access to indicators and drawing tools for free | Use any time frame for free, but real-time data requires a paid subscription | $89-$140 per month |
| Interactive Brokers Visit Site | Brokerage Platform | Stocks, ETFs, Mutual Funds, Options, Futures, Futures Options, Crypto, Bonds | Downloadable desktop platforms, web platform, mobile app | Must buy real-time data | No premium features |
Overview of Barchart
Barchart is a charting platform that allows you to analyze stocks, ETFs, currencies, and futures. You get access to indicators, drawing tools, and all time frames for free, but you must pay for real-time data and other advanced features.
Overview of Interactive Brokers
Interactive Brokers (IBKR) is a well-established brokerage firm founded in 1978, known for providing advanced trading and investing services to a diverse clientele, including individual investors, institutions, and professional traders. IBKR offers competitive pricing for options and futures, but lacks when it comes to charting and ease of use.
Who is Barchart Best For?
Barchart is best for swing traders and investors who want free access to a decent charting platform. If you are an active trader, the pricing is quite expensive for real-time data, and the charting isn’t as good as competitors like TradingView and TrendSpider.
Who is Interactive Brokers Best For?
Interactive Brokers is best for advanced traders who prefer to automate their trading strategies. IBKR is far from beginner-friendly, as the platforms are advanced and require some technical knowledge to utilize effectively. If you are looking for a modern, easy-to-use investing platform, IBKR is not your best option.
Trading Features and Tools
| Provider | DRIP | Margin Trading | Insurance | Mobile App |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barchart Visit Site | Not a broker | Not a broker | Not a broker | Yes |
| Interactive Brokers Visit Site | Yes, but with fees | Yes | SIPC Insured | Yes |
Trading Costs and Commissions Compared
| Fee Type | Barchart Visit Site | Interactive Brokers Visit Site |
|---|---|---|
| Equity Commission | Not a broker | Free |
| Option Commission | Not a broker | $0.65 per contract |
| Futures Commission | Not a broker | $0.85 per contract, $0.25 micro |
| Futures Options Commission | Not a broker | $0.85 per contract, $0.25 micro |
| Option Exercise Fee | Not a broker | None |
Barchart vs Interactive Brokers – Bottom Line
Choosing between Barchart and Interactive Brokers depends on your specific trading needs, preferred trading tools, and the type of assets you’re interested in.
Both platforms offer distinct advantages, but by considering the detailed comparison above, you can select the one that aligns best with your trading strategy and goals.
For more detailed reviews and comparisons, continue exploring our other articles on brokerage platform comparisons.
What is the Overall Best Charting Software?
I have reviewed and used nearly every trading platform available, and I believe that TradingView is the best overall charting software available. Here are some reasons why:
- All of TradingView’s key features are free to use
- TradingView provides real-time data for free whenever possible
- You are not tied to a single broker and can use whichever you want while charting on TradingView
- You can track all markets on a single platform, including stocks, ETFs, crypto, forex, and futures.
- TradingView has an excellent economic calendar and various screeners
TradingView Limited Time Offer!
Exclusive Deal: 30-Day FREE Premium Access + Bonus Credit
Don’t Miss Out – Sign up for TradingView Now!
- Advanced Charts
- Real-Time Data
- Track all Markets
If you sign up for a TradingView account using my affiliate link, you can get a 30-day free trial of its premium features plus a $15 credit toward your subscription. However, signing up for a free trial is not required, and you can use nearly all of its features with a basic free account. You can read my full review of TradingView to learn more.
Related Trading Platform Comparisons
Interactive Brokers vs Schwab
Finviz vs MT4
ETrade vs Tradestation
MT4 vs thinkorswim
Schwab vs StockCharts
